082423A03_art_1

Grant

FROM PAGE 1

submitted since Aug. 3. Among the completed and successfully submitted applications (351): 70 percent are currently being reviewed or in the queue to be reviewed 30 percent are completed and approved for a BEGAP grant A total of $397,136 has been paid out to date, with an average award amount of $13,694 Total damage reported within applications is $134 million, with $108 million in net damage (damage uncovered by insurance or other grants).

"We are thrilled that money is starting to go out the door to those in need and I am grateful for the team we have working to approve these grants as quickly as possible," said Agency of Commerce and Community Development Secretary Lind-say Kurrle. "If you are applying for a BEGAP grant, take the time to submit a complete and thorough application to avoid delays. We know many business owners are still trying to get their documentation together. Our message to those people is that you haven't missed the window to access these grants. There is funding still available, and a complete application will get you the financial support you need faster."

Interested BEGAP applicants should visit the BEGAP program page and check out the FAQs at https://accd.vermont. gov/economic-development/ flood-emergency-funding.

To help business owners who are having trouble getting contractor estimates for repairs to their businesses, the Vermont Builders and Remodelers Association, along with other contractor membership organizations, collaborated with the Agency of Commerce and Community Development (ACCD) to compile a list of general estimates for the purpose of supporting BEGAP grant applicants.

The list includes several types of repairs, from installing drywall and flooring to plumbing and heating work. If necessary, the figures on this list can be used in lieu of an estimate from an actual contractor.

To aid in ensuring grant applications are reviewed, approved, and paid as quickly as possible DED has enlisted the help of more than a dozen state employees from other agencies, including the Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets, the Vermont Agency of Administration, the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, the Vermont Department of Taxes, and the Vermont Agency of Digital Services. These extra employees are helping in processing applications, awarding grants, and distributing funds.

"As we have learned from prior disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic, government works better when it works together," said Gov. Scott. "I'm grateful for this cross-agency collaboration and that my team is willing to do what it takes, including lending employees for emergency programs, to get support to Vermonters as quickly as we can."

[TPHED]Editorial"/>